Uluwatu

Many places on Bali and the Bukit Peninsula have more than one thing that makes them famous. No place is this more true of than Uluwatu, home of the legendary cliff-top temple above and unsurpassed surfing below. First placed on the surfing map by the 1971 Australian surf film classic “Morning of the Earth”, Uluwatu is the most visited tourist feature on the entire island.

Jaw-dropping sunsets, mischievous monkeys and fascinating cultural performances are just a few of the things that attract visitors to Uluwatu. This ancient Hindu temple, known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, was built in the 11th century on these jagged cliffs overlooking the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Located only 3 km from Padang Padang and Rapturecamps Bali, Uluwatu is part of Pecatu village in the South Kuta district.

And while surfers appreciate natural beauty as much as anyone, it’s the waves that really draw them in. Uluwatu beach is nestled right under the cliffs below the temple, but make no mistake, the temple’s peaceful vibes have no calming effects on the powerful waves surging below. In contrast to the more accommodating, beginner-friendly waves at Padang Padang Beach (Padang Padang Right), Uluwatu is strictly for experienced surfers.

Pros from around the world and skilled local surfers love Uluwatu for its consistency, variety and high performance. Even for pros, the timing has to be right or they’re dicing with some serious danger. When surfing Uluwatu, make sure your board is big and you’ve got a strong leash and reef booties.

To call Uluwatu a “top surf spot” would be to sell it short. Uluwatu is a collection of 5 incredible breaks: Racetrack, Peak, Temples, Outside Corner and Bombie.

Hit Uluwatu during Bali’s dry season of June to September. For large swells try very low tides, while all tides will provide small and medium swells.